Shinkansen Travel
Use the Hokuriku Shinkansen for fast, direct access from Tokyo to Nagano City and beyond.
Japan
Prefecture·Majestic, Alpine, Serene
Nagano Prefecture, situated in the heart of Honshu's Chūbu region, is a landlocked paradise defined by the towering peaks of the Japanese Alps. Boasting nine of the country's twelve highest mountains, it is a global hub for skiing, snowboarding, and high-altitude hiking. The region gained international fame as the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, and today it continues to draw visitors with its pristine natural scenery and Olympic-grade facilities. Beyond the slopes, Nagano offers deep cultural immersion through historical sites in cities like Matsumoto and Ueda. With the Hokuriku Shinkansen providing a direct link to Tokyo, it serves as a perfect escape for those seeking both adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful mountain heritage.
Nagano Prefecture, situated in the heart of Honshu's Chūbu region, is a landlocked paradise defined by the towering peaks of the Japanese Alps. Boasting nine of the country's twelve highest mountains, it is a global hub for skiing, snowboarding, and high-altitude hiking. The region gained international fame as the host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, and today it continues to draw visitors with its pristine natural scenery and Olympic-grade facilities. Beyond the slopes, Nagano offers deep cultural immersion through historical sites in cities like Matsumoto and Ueda. With the Hokuriku Shinkansen providing a direct link to Tokyo, it serves as a perfect escape for those seeking both adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful mountain heritage.
Highlights
Home to nine of the twelve highest mountains in Japan.
World-class ski resorts and host of the 1998 Winter Olympics.
Stunning highland landscapes across the Japanese Alps.
Rich cultural and historical sites including Matsumoto and Ueda.
Convenient access via the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo.
Before you go: Nagano essentials
Home to the Japanese Alps, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding.
Host of the 1998 Winter Olympics with many professional-grade facilities still in use.
Landlocked geography with a focus on mountain culture and highland landscapes.
Winter Sports
Book your ski resort accommodation well in advance during the peak winter months of January and February.
Best For
Outdoor enthusiasts, winter sports fans, and mountain hikers.
Currency
JPY ¥
Languages Spoken
Japanese, English
Mountain Safety
If hiking the Japanese Alps, always check weather conditions and carry appropriate gear for high-altitude terrain.
Best time to visit Nagano
December-March, July-September
Spring
Spring in Nagano offers cherry blossoms in the valleys and lingering snow on the high peaks; ideal for mild hiking.
Best Season
Summer
Escape the heat of the cities in the cool highland areas and enjoy extensive mountain trekking and alpine flowers.
Best Season
Fall
Experience stunning autumn foliage across the mountain ranges, typically peaking throughout October.
Best Season
Winter
The peak season for world-class skiing and snowboarding across numerous high-altitude resorts.
Location
Nagano, Japan
